How Do Extension Boards Work?

 How Do Extension Boards Work?

Extension boards are multiple electrical sockets connected in parallel to each other and encased in a shockproof box. They extend the reach of electrical wall sockets by means of a flexible power cable. To merely label extension boards as an electronic appliance is to do them a gross injustice.

It draws power from the wall sockets and distributes it amongst devices connected to these multiple sockets. Extension boards can vary in design, with some having features like individual switches and LED indicators to indicate which socket is being currently used.

Ohm’s Law: How Current Flows In A Circuit?

Ohm's Law is a fundamental principle in electronics and electrical engineering that describes the relationship between voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) in an electrical circuit. It states that:

V = I * R

Where:

V represents the voltage across a component or the potential difference between two points in a circuit. It is measured in volts (V).

I represents the current flowing through the component or the circuit. It is measured in amperes (A), which are commonly referred to as "amps."

R represents the resistance of the component or the circuit. It is measured in ohms (Ω).

All appliances connected in a circuit consume current, thus causing resistance to it from flowing further onward in the circuit. They are therefore represented as such. Based on the arrangement of resistances in a circuit, a circuit can be classified as series or parallel.

Series Circuits

A series circuit is an electrical circuit in which the components (such as resistors, bulbs, or other devices) are connected end-to-end in a single, continuous path. In a series circuit, the same current flows through all components, and the total voltage across the circuit is divided among them.

Parallel Circuit

In a purely parallel circuit, there are never more than two sets of electrically common points, no matter how many components are connected. There are many paths for current flow, but only one voltage across all components.

As every appliance gets its ‘own’ circuit, all appliances get equal voltage. Their draw of current depends on their individual resistances, making the total current drawn a sum of the individual currents drawn by each appliance.

Surge Protection

Surge protection, also known as surge suppression or surge suppression technology, refers to a system or device designed to safeguard electrical and electronic equipment from voltage spikes or surges in an electrical circuit. Surge protection devices work by diverting excess voltage away from sensitive equipment and dissipating it harmlessly into the ground or another safe location.  

Grounding

Grounding, also known as earthing, is a crucial electrical safety practice and system that ensures that electrical systems and equipment are connected to the Earth's conductive surface. The primary purpose of grounding is to provide a safe pathway for electrical faults, such as short circuits or electrical surges, to dissipate safely into the Earth, reducing the risk of electrical shock, fire, or equipment damage.